Obituary of John David Cannell

It is with heavy hearts that the family announce the passing of John David Cannell, of Quispamsis, formerly of Chester Basin and Halifax, loving husband of Darlene (Durning, Woodford), which occurred peacefully on April 25, 2017 at his residence, surrounded by his family. John was born on March 9, 1938 in London , England. He was the son of the late John and Beatrice (Truss) Cannell. John will be sadly missed by his loving wife Darlene, daughter in law, Angela Falkenham (Johnnie), Julie Sharpe (Michael), stepchildren,(Doris) Donna Robinson (Kenneth),Heather,Avril (Fred), (Donna) Ross, Barbara,Claudia, and Sheila. Grandchildren, JC Cannell (John Cyril), Katherine Cannell, Nathaniel Sharpe. Brother, Reverend Michael Cannell (Debbie), nephews, Robert Cannell (Nicole), Stephen Cannell (Michelle) and niece, Jennifer Cannell. Also by several nieces, nephews and cousins (his UK family). Former spouses Marjorie Douthwright (mother of his boys), and Doris Cannell (mother of Michael Sharpe). John was predeceased by his parents, his sons David Andrew, John Stewart, and Michael Sharpe, brother Jack, sisters Wendy and Barbara (his UK family) and former spouse Donna MacAulay. John and his parents immigrated to Canada in 1947 settling in Moncton, NB. John attended Moncton High School and UNB Fredericton. After completing his education and marrying Marjorie, John headed to Ontario to begin his career in the automotive business, subsequently returning to the Maritimes. John was well known in the automotive business working for Volvo Canada, Battery and Electric and UAP before starting his own business including ALD Group, Cannell Sales and Service and Segrev Sales. John authored many articles for Trade magazines including Auto Atlantic. After moving to Quispamsis in 2004, John continued to work with his stepson Michael Sharpe of MJS Holdings. He continued his contacts with customers and was a welcome sight at Automotive Trade Shows. Throughout his life John quietly supported groups and individuals in need. He was a Big man with a Big heart. John delighted in his times aboard his wooden boat “Segrev". He cruised the waters of Mahone Bay for over 35 years. He was an accomplished sailor and loved his wooden boat and the open water. In later years John and Darlene enjoyed several trips to the UK reconnecting with his family, also cruising to Hawaii, the Carribean and the Panama Canal and visiting Disney World. Grand Manan was close to John's heart where he and Darlene spent many summers and Christmases. John was an active member of Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Hammond River. Sincere appreciation to Dr Amanda Caissie, Dr Hemmings and the KV Extra Mural Unit for their kind and compassionate care. Visitation will be held from Kennebecasis Community Funeral Home, 152 Pettingill Road, Quispamsis, NB (506) 849-2119 on Sunday, April 30 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. Funeral service will take place at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Hammond River on Monday, May 1, 2017 at 11 AM. For those who wish, remembrances may be made to Holy Trinity Anglican Church, SPCA Animal Rescue League, or Bobby's Hospice.